Can you work remote in Italy for a UK based company with just a tourist visa?

Can you work remote in Italy for a UK based company with just a tourist visa? - Back view focused ethnic male in white shirt reading document while sitting at desk with netbook in light office

I'm a UK resident and want to vacation in Italy for 2 months in 2022. I work as a software developer so i can work with just my laptop and internet connection. I want to work some days when i am out there and use other days for exploring/sightseeing.

My company is based in the UK. I know i've seen some other answers that have said it's technically illegal but is this enforceable and is it worth the risk? Will i be asked to show proof of time off from my employer by border control when i arrive?



Best Answer

Lots of countries these days are creating digital nomad visa's to account for traveling remote workers. Italy doesn't appear to be one of these countries though.

To work in Italy, in any capacity you do have to have a work visa. That is just in consideration with the legalities of Italy though. Your own company may have its own set of rules regarding where one can work remotely as well.

However, depending on the exact nature of your employment relationship in the UK you may be able to qualify for a self-employment visa in Italy to allow you to continue to work there while in the country.




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Can I work remotely on a tourist visa in Italy?

Italy will soon roll out a new visa that allows remote workers to live in Italy even though their jobs are based abroad. Supporters hope it will attract high-earning workers and spark innovation.

Can I work remotely in Europe on a tourist visa?

Foreigners who wish to do some remote work whilst on holiday in Europe can do so with a tourist visa, or visa-free if from an exempt country. From 2023, the ETIAS authorisation for Europe will be required for short, visa-free stays in the Schengen Area.

Can you work remotely while on a tourist visa?

There's no universal visa rule for every country in the world. Some countries might allow you to work on a tourist visa if the scope of your work is limited to your country of residence, for example, while others might take a harsher approach, even if you're not interacting with the local workforce.

Can you work remotely in UK on tourist visa?

The UK has no immigration provision for individuals to work remotely in the UK for a non-UK entity. To obtain a work visa (eg, Skilled Worker, Intra-Company Transfer) an individual must be sponsored by a trading UK company for an eligible role.



How to Remote Work from Italy | A Millennial guide to move to Italy




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